Updated

The Ravens and linebacker Daryl Smith have agreed on a four-year deal that solidifies the middle of Baltimore's defense.

The sides reached agreement on Friday, the same day Smith celebrated his 32nd birthday.

Smith started all 16 games for the Ravens in 2013 and led the team with 123 tackles. He also had a career-high 19 passes defensed, setting a Ravens record by a linebacker.

Signing the 6-foot-2, 250-pound Smith was a priority for the team during the offseason.

General manager Ozzie Newsome says, "There are a lot of smiles around the building today after we got a commitment from Daryl Smith to stay a Raven. He fills a need for us at a high level."

Newsome adds of Smith: "He's tough, he's consistent, he's intelligent."

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